As a teacher, I faced a dilemma regarding my students’ levels of readiness in understanding and effectively using figurative language and imagery to create meaningful messages. They struggled with ways to utilized design aesthetics when presenting information and in understanding ways in which organization can impact effective communication. Additionally, many faced the obstacle of poor confidence in their own creative abilities. I developed this arts integrated unit to target these issues, and I added a podcasting element to offer a 21st century presentation tool that would allow them to reach an authentic audience.
I presented this extended unit to George Mason University’s Northern Virginia Writing Project Invitational Summer Institute in July of 2014. I hope you are able to use this lesson in parts, or as a whole, and definitely with your own spin on things. Each of the components could easily be adjusted for use across any content area.
Here are some pictures of the finished product for one component in the lesson, the poetry object and wall display.
March 18, 2015 at 12:44 am
The problem of self-esteem and confidence in academic ability is an overlooked issue and self-perpetuating! I noticed often students who will whisper a right answer, afraid to truly participate. Giving them tools is one great way to build confidence!
April 6, 2015 at 3:36 pm
I agree, Autumn. Especially at the middle school level, students are so conscious of their abilities and lack confidence when it comes to their intelligence. It’s also evident that the standardization of education has led to some detrimental side-effects when it comes to how students perceive themselves.